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Where is the copy of the iPhone? Where can I find copies on my Mac PC? How to Move iTunes Backups to Another Drive on Mac OS X

Articles and Lifehacks

Many iOS device users are interested in the very concept of backup. Well, since they don’t quite understand what it is, the question is: how to view iPhone backup and find out remains open to them as well.

Of course, every owner of an Apple smartphone will not only be interested, but also useful, to study this process from the inside.
It should be noted that the main purpose of backup is the ability to subsequently restore personal data and even existing settings on the iPhone.

In addition, when purchasing a new device, this is an excellent way to get all the necessary data - in particular, passwords to Wi-Fi and other accounts.

Principles of working with an iPhone backup: creating, updating, viewing lists

Let's start with the fact that it is in the backup copy of the mobile device that the bookmarks and automatic filling information of the Safari browser, settings and data from applications from third-party developers, Bluetooth devices, various user settings parameters, account passwords, notes, SMS messages, images, etc. are stored. video up to 2 gigabytes and much more.

The backup does not contain photos, videos or audio files synced using iTunes. The list of what is stored can be easily found on the official support service website.

When a user connects their iPhone to the iTunes application and begins the synchronization process, the very first operation is a backup. If a backup copy does not yet exist, a new copy is created automatically, or the corresponding backup is updated.

In fact, backup is the first stage of synchronization. All subsequent events in this process are not displayed in any way.
It is useful to know that the context menu contains an item for restoring information from a backup copy.

This copying process can take quite a long time. To speed it up, it is recommended to first delete all videos and photos. But it does not affect the copying speed.

So, how to view your iPhone backup? To view a list of the most recently created copies, you need to go to the iTunes settings through the panel called “Devices”. If there are many similar devices, the user will see several separate lists.
On a Mac computer, you can find the backup file in the “Library” ⟶ “Application Support” ⟶ “Mobile Sync” ⟶ “Backup” folder.

Basics of viewing iPhone backups on other computers and other useful tips

As already mentioned, you can view copies on a Mac by finding the backup file.
If the device owner is using Windows XP, he can go to “Documents and Settings” (on drive C) ⟶ [username]⟶ “Application Data”⟶ “Apple Computer”⟶ “MobileSync”⟶ “Backup”.

To speed up access to App Data in XP, open Start ⟶ Run command. Enter %appdate% and click “OK”. It is recommended to do the same with Windows 7 and Vista.

You should be aware that any backup can be encrypted using a password in the Overview panel. When you switch to a new mobile device, all passwords will be saved.

I made a backup copy of my iPhone on one computer, but I need to transfer it to another. What to do? how to transfer on Windows?

Sooner or later, iPhone users are faced with the question of where their backups are stored. And it will be better if you find out about this in advance than when, after reinstalling the OS, all your contacts, photos and notes disappear. Information on an iPhone can even cost more than the device itself. Therefore, it is worth taking the topic under discussion seriously.

iPhone Sync and Backups

In order to protect yourself from data loss, you need to make a backup copy of your iPhone before starting synchronization.
It includes:

  • address book (all contacts) and call history;
  • calendars, reminders, notes, messages (iMessage, SMS, and MMS);
  • photographs taken with this device (downloaded from other media are not included here);
  • data from various programs (this includes game completions, documents,
  • movies in third-party programs (not converted for iPhone);
  • Safari browser data.

A backup copy is created to save data in the event of:

  • phone breakdown;
  • accidental deletion of data;
  • software failure;
  • failure of cloud services.

Selecting a copy storage location

There are two possible options for saving your iPhone backup. You can store it:

  • using iTunes (using a computer);
  • via iCloud (in the cloud, on Apple servers).

You have to choose one thing. A copy can be stored in one of these places; there is no way to duplicate them.

This process will be different in new and old iTunes.
In older iTunes you need to do the following steps:

  1. connect the device to the computer;
  2. find it in the column on the left, where the selection of sections is located;
  3. in the device window that opens, go down to the “Backup” item;
  4. decide on the path for copying (iCloud, or a classic copy on a computer);
  5. wait for the copying process to complete.

In iTunes 11, this process is automated, but if you suddenly disabled this function, then you need to perform some manipulations.
In the new iTunes (version 11) you need:

  • connect the device to the computer;
  • find a device based on its name;
  • start Backup by clicking on Back up now.

Where to store copies on your computer

Storage paths will depend on your computer's operating system.

For Windows XP it looks like this:

Documents and Settings\Username\Application Data\Apple Computer\MobileSync\Backup\.

For Vista or Windows 7:

Users\Username\AppData\Roaming\Apple Computer\MobileSync\Backup\.
For Mac OS: \Users\Username\Libraries\Application Support\MobileSync\Backup.

The “Username” item needs to be changed to a name that suits you. Owners of Mac OS computers may have problems finding the Libraries folder. It became hidden starting from version 10.7 (Lion). To get into it, you need to be proficient in the command line or:

  • Open Finder and click the Go tab at the top.

  • When you press the Alt key, the “Libraries” folder will appear in the menu; you need to go to it.
  • further actions correspond to the instructions above.

Other backup storage locations

In addition to the places described above, copies can be found in iTunes and the cloud service. A significant disadvantage of these places is their limited functionality. The backup copy can only be deleted; no other manipulations with it are possible. You need to find it in iTunes by opening the program itself and going to settings.

In the window that opens, go to the “Devices” tab

The window shows all the backups available on the computer and the date they were created.

You can delete them. No other actions are available. You will not be able to copy or transfer them this way.
Another storage location is Apple’s cloud service – iCloud. From the moment you enable backup, this process will occur automatically every day. To do this, three conditions must be met:

  • Internet connections;
  • connection to a power source;
  • screen lock.

The function of restoring data from a backup copy is available during the first start of the phone. He always asks about this, and can do this after entering his login and password.

How to restore an iPhone backup

The synchronization process creates a backup copy on the iPhone. Subsequently, it can be used to restore the content. Data can be easily transferred to different devices. In encrypted backups (in iOS 4), passwords are transferred along with the copy to the new hardware.
Whatever experiments you conduct with your iPhone, remember that before any intervention with it, you need to make a backup. This function will help you save all the necessary information in case you change your phone, or make a mistake when taking steps to improve it.

iTunes is a useful and versatile application. It helps owners of Apple products work with information on smartphones and tablets. For example, recovering data. There is a function for this that allows you to create backup copies. Without much difficulty, you can return this or that information to your iPhone or iPad at any time. Fast, simple, convenient! Only sometimes it is necessary to find a specific package of information that iTunes worked with. Where are backups stored? How are they created? What should every user know?

Windows base

The operating system the user works with will play a huge role. The fact is that on different operating systems data is recorded and stored at different addresses.

What does iTunes offer? Where are user information backed up? For example, in Windows. The majority of mobile device owners use this operating system.

To avoid confusion, you can use the following search recommendations:

  1. Windows XP. In practice it doesn't happen that often, but it does happen. You need to go to "My Computer". Next, go to the hard drive partition where the operating system is installed. There go to the following address: Documents and Computer. Here open the MobileSync folder. Backup iTunes data will be located in BackUp.
  2. Windows Vista. Today, working in this OS has practically lost its relevance. In it you will need to go to Documents and Settings/AppData/Roaming/Apple Computer. All other searches will be exactly the same as in the previous case.
  3. Windows 7-10. The most common scenario. It is under these versions that iTunes is most often launched. Where are user backups stored? In the same place as in all previous cases. The only difference is that to open AppData you will have to initially follow the path: C:/Users/username. The BackUp folder located in MobileSync is what you need.

In fact, there is nothing difficult in the search process. Only some users note that sometimes “Backup” is missing. What to do in such a situation?

No BackUp

The main thing is not to panic. The fact is that the problem being studied occurs in many users. There is no need to be afraid of it, everything can be fixed in a few clicks of the mouse.

The problem is with the Windows settings. In fact, the BackUp folder exists, it is simply hidden from the user's eyes. To find it at the previously specified addresses, you must:

  1. Go to "Start" - "Control Panel".
  2. Select "Folder Options" - "View".
  3. Configure the display of hidden files and folders. To do this, you need to check the appropriate boxes and save the changes.

After these steps, all hidden documents on the computer will become available to the user. This means that “Backup” will also be found.

For Mac

Some users work not with Windows, but with MacOS. iTunes works perfectly with this operating system. But it also requires knowing where to go to find backup copies of a person’s data.

In general, the process is not much different from previously proposed algorithms. The required folder from iTunes is located in MobileSync. You can find it in: user/library/Application Support.

Accordingly, this is where the application changes are made? This question will not cause any more trouble. You can literally find the document you need in just a few clicks.

About compatibility

The relevant information is stored in a folder with one or another copy. To check the version of the device that is compatible with the information, you need to:

  1. Open BackUp and go to the folder with the desired data package.
  2. Find the Info.Plist file. It opens using a text editor. For example, through Notepad in Windows.
  3. Carefully study the contents of the document. After Product Name There will definitely be a mention of the version of the smartphone on which the copy of the data will be launched.

Even a novice user can master all these actions. Was there a backup made in iTunes? The storage location of the relevant document is now known. And even how to check its compatibility, too.

Ways to create a copy

Before looking for backup data, you need to create it. Not everyone knows about this procedure either. How to create a backup using iTunes? Bringing your idea to life will not take much time. All you have to do is follow the short instructions.

Backing up via iTunes goes something like this:

  1. Download and install the latest version of iTunes.
  2. Connect your mobile device to your computer using a wire.
  3. Launch the previously installed application.
  4. How to create a backup in iTunes? Select the connected device in the menu and go to the "Browse" section.
  5. Select the "Make a copy now" button from the menu.
  6. Click on "OK" after the process is completed.

This is the simplest solution. You can also work with iCloud or third-party applications. But this is not the best solution. After all, an iPhone backup via iTunes is created in just a few clicks!

Results and conclusions

From now on, it’s clear how to work with backup data on an iPod or iPhone. Finding them on your computer is no longer difficult. Each user is able to bring an idea to life.

The iPhone backup via iTunes is restored if necessary. It is recommended not to store such documents on your computer. This is a kind of data protection method. It is advisable to copy all copies of iPhone to removable media.

iCloud cloud storage is one of Apple's outstanding developments. However, access to iCloud backup is limited for users. But did you know that it is still possible to open and view data in iCloud on your PC or Mac? In general, there are several ways to view storage data; in this article we will look at two of them. Using our instructions, you can view your backup data in iCloud, even if it was made for the latest version of iOS 12.

3 Ways to Open iCloud Backup

View iCloud backup via restoring it on an iOS device

The first method involves restoring an iCloud backup to an iOS device, including iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch. This method is official - it is offered by Apple itself. However, all current data on your iPhone will be replaced by the restored backup copy. If you still decide to use this method, follow the instructions below.

Step 1. Go to Settings -> General -> Reset. Select the "Erase content and settings" option.

Step 2: The Programs and Data window will open. Click on "Recover from iCloud backup". Sign in to your account.

Step 3. Go to the “Select copy” function and mark the backup you want to view.

Step 4. Wait until the data from the iCloud backup is downloaded, after which you can view the files in this copy.

Is it possible to view iCloud backup data without restoring it? How to view iCloud backup without losing data? A third-party application for viewing iCloud backup will help with this - more on this later in our article.

Method 2: Open and view up to 25 types of data in iCloud backup

The program allows you to go in and view up to 25 different types of files saved in your iCloud backup. You can view and export data from iCloud or iTunes backups, as well as current data from your iOS device. The application works with both Windows and Mac and is highly efficient and responsive.

Step 1.Download the program, install and run it on your PC.

Step 2. Select the recovery mode "Recover files from iCloud". Sign in to your iCloud account. Here you can choose either of two login options: 1) sign in with your Apple ID; 2) if your PC is already logged into the cloud storage, go to the “Programmatic access” option and the login will be performed automatically.



Step 3. After logging into your account, a list of available backups will appear on the screen. Here you can check the details (name, date, version, size) of any backup file. Select the backup that contains the data you need and click “Forward.”

Step 4. In the window that opens, select the type of files to download and scan. To speed up the process, you can upload only the types of files that you need. Click "Forward" to start downloading the selected objects from the cloud.

Step 5. Once the download is complete, the program will automatically start scanning the data and provide you with the details of the objects for preview. In the left panel you can select the required file category. The scan results contain both information existing on your device and information deleted from the backup copy. At the bottom of the window you can enable the “Show only deleted” function.


Step 6. Mark the items you want to restore and click "Recover". You can restore files selectively or all at once. In addition, the program allows you to select the desired format for saving files. Media content (photos, videos) will be saved in their original formats. There are two recovery options for contacts, messages and notes: “Recover to device” and “Recover to computer”. When choosing the first option, make sure that your iPhone, iPad or iPod is connected to your PC using a USB cable.


You can also restore via UltData

Method 3. Life hack: How to check saved data in iCloud Online

If you have not created a backup copy in iCloud, but save your data in cloud storage using the following path: Settings -> (Name) -> iCloud -> Applications using iCloud; then you can easily get a backup via iCloud.com.

Step 2: The available data types will be displayed on the screen. Click on a data type to see its contents.


This method is quite effective for viewing data in iCloud, but its disadvantage is limited access to content. For example, MMS, text messages, iMessages, third-party applications and some other types of data are inaccessible.

To ensure efficient viewing of iCloud backup data without any data loss, you can use various third-party applications designed specifically for the convenience of users, such as the Tenorshare UltData application. With its efficient operation, user-friendly interface and ease of use, the program has gained popularity among users of Apple products. Its main feature is the efficiency of operation and the safety of all your data - you will undoubtedly like it too!


Today I will tell you - how to backup iPhone, if you use an iPad tablet or iPod, you can also use these instructions for creating a backup.

You need to do backups periodically, especially if your device contains information that is valuable to you and cannot be lost. For example, voice recorder recordings, notes, etc.

I will teach you how to create a backup copy of your iPhone and save it to your computer using the program, if you have not yet installed this program, then keep “”.

Backing up iPhone

First, we launch the iTunes program and using a cable we connect our iPhone to the computer. iTunes can use not only your computer, but also the iCloud cloud service as backup storage.

But today we will not climb into the “clouds”, so we will choose as a carrier - This computer(located: iPhone – Overview tab – Backups section). This setting is generally used by default.


Now let's start creating a backup copy of your iPhone, there are several ways to start a backup. Method one: Context menu File – Devices – Create a backup.


Second and third methods: In the left pane of iTunes, in the “Devices” section, right-click on the iPhone and select – Create a backup. If you haven’t yet, then you can select iPhone, go to the Review tab and in the Backups section, click the button - “ Create a copy now».

The process of creating a backup of our iPhone can be observed at the top of the iTunes program. The program takes you through the backup process step by step.

What's in an iPhone Backup?

I don’t know whether this is good or bad, but the backup copy created in iTunes does not contain all the information available on the phone. If you have hundreds of applications installed, then this is even good, because if the iPhone backup stored all the information in itself, then the process of creating a backup would take more time, and besides, the backup itself would take up quite a lot of disk space on the computer, especially if you often create backups. The backup copy contains:

  • All Notes app content
  • Contacts
  • From the Photo app only Camera Roll
  • Events marked in the Calendar app
  • Previous bookmarks in Safari
  • Messages and call histories
  • Voice recorder recordings
  • All phone settings, profiles and network settings
  • In-App Purchases

A typical iPhone backup does not include:

  • games and applications
  • Music and video files
  • Ringtones

How to Delete an iPhone Backup

In order to find out which backups are already on our computer, you can look into the iTunes program settings: Edit - Preferences (or in Windows: “Ctrl” + “,”). Select the tab – Devices, and see all previously created backups.


All these created backups are stored in the computer's memory, so if your operating system reports insufficient space on the C drive, and you cannot figure out what is clogging up the computer's memory, then it may be the backup copies of your iPhones and iPads. To delete an unnecessary backup copy, you need to select it and use the button – Delete backup.

If more than one is installed on your computer, then periodic cleaning of backup copies must be performed under each operating system account.

By the way, there is one more convenience for owners of several iPhones or iPads. In order not to get confused in backup copies and not make mistakes, before deleting, hover your mouse over the backup copy and you will see the device from which the backup was made.

Where to find an iPhone backup on your computer

It happens that iTunes seems to have deleted all the backup copies of the iPhone and iPod touch, but the hard drive memory is not freed up, then you can find the backup files and delete them manually. Below are the paths for different operating systems where the backup files are located:

  • Windows XP– \Documents and Settings\ Account Name\Application Data\Apple Computer\MobileSync\Backup\
  • Windows 7, 8 and Vista– \Accounts\ Account name\AppData\Roaming\Apple Computer\MobileSync\Backup\
  • Mac OS– User folder\Libraries\Application Support\MobileSync\Backup\

Now you know where your iPhone and iPad backup is saved. You can follow the path indicated above and look at it, or copy it.

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